1. 12 Steps to Successful Technology Planning in the Consortial Environment State Library of Louisiana Louisiana Library Association March 2006

2. Step 1  Accept that cooperation and partnerships are the only way to go. Forgo the custom build We have to make it work If it ain’t broke…

3. Step 2  Realize that there is power in numbers – share expertise, funds, work, equipment. More leverage with the vendor Credibility in numbers Avoid “We’re special” syndrome.

4. Step 3  Accept that you will have to give up some control; you won’t get everything that you want. Governance and decision-making KISS Outsourcing vs. partnering

5. Step 4  Inventory the needs and desires of the members of the consortium. Proprietary formats Lack of synchronization / standards Incomplete / wrong data

6. Step 5  Share the results of the inventory with all members. Don’t over-promise Get agreement / buy-in Be realistic

7. Step 6  Identify the problems to be solved. What exactly will the system do? Is this the way to solve that problem? Is a consortial approach the best? Do we have the money? Staff? Time? Expertise?

8. Step 7  Seek solutions and alternatives RFP, RFI, RFQ, demos, etc. Avoid tunnel vision Overestimating innovation’s speed of diffusion Underestimating eventual consequences

9. Step 8  Make a decision / choose a system. Informed decisions Demos and tests Dealing with consultants Distinguish between current and future functionality of system.

10. Step 9  Implement the system and train everyone involved. Budget for training Beware “project creep” Understand before you implement Who will provide support?

11. Step 10  Review the systems and members’ needs on a continual basis. Security / passwords Upkeep and maintenance Only ½ ready at launch Accept that you can’t please everyone Provide formal mechanism for changes and upgrades.

12. Step 11  Stay in touch… User groups Listserves Training Surveys Personal networking

13. Step 12  Share what you have learned with others. What worked What didn’t